07/28/2026
Michael Lagopoulos first knew Dr. John Floras as his neighbour, then a friend, then the physician who helped him when no one else could.
“I met John in 1996 while I was shoveling snow outside my home,” says Michael. “I learned we were both of Hellenic (Greek) heritage and 30 years later, I feel privileged to be his patient and his friend.”
That sentiment had never felt more true than the day Michael was rushed to the hospital after feeling dizzy and disoriented at work. He went through a battery of tests, but no one could find what was causing his symptoms. It was his friend and cardiologist, Dr. Floras, who figured it out – a case of dehydration.
“It was frightening, but John spent the time and took care of me.” says Michael. “How do you thank a person for doing something like that for you?”
To express his gratitude, Michael made a gift and held a fundraising dinner in support of Dr. Floras’ research, which seeks to better understand the heart and improve treatment. He also nominated Dr. Floras for the Hellenic Heritage Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award to recognize his lifelong career in cardiovascular medicine, which Dr. Floras won in 2025.
“His actions of humanity and humility are extraordinary,” says Michael. “In Greek, there is a concept called philotimo. Philo means friend and timi means honour or respect. If someone does something good for you, you should recognize their efforts and show your gratitude.”
We are grateful to Michael for his support of cardiac care and research.
